Cyclone Dana is set to hit the coastline of Odisha and West Bengal soon, prompting mass evacuations and widespread preparations in India’s eastern coastal regions. Authorities have evacuated nearly 1.5 million residents in anticipation of Cyclone Dana, which is forecasted to make landfall within the next 24 hours, bringing with it severe winds, heavy rainfall, and high waves that could cause significant damage across the affected areas.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has confirmed that Cyclone Dana, currently developing over the Bay of Bengal, is expected to intensify into a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching between 100-120 km/h (62-74 mph). The cyclone’s approach has put Odisha and West Bengal’s coastal areas on high alert as state governments work to secure residents’ safety.
Mass Evacuations and Safety Measures
Odisha and West Bengal have undertaken large-scale evacuations as Cyclone Dana moves toward the coastline. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi confirmed that over one million people have been evacuated from vulnerable districts, while West Bengal has relocated approximately 300,000 residents from low-lying areas. The cyclone is expected to affect at least 14 districts in Odisha and several coastal regions in West Bengal, where authorities have established temporary shelters with essential supplies, including food, water, and medical assistance.
Chief Minister Majhi has urged residents to stay calm, saying, “We are fully prepared to deal with the storm. Don’t panic, be safe and be careful.” Both states have mobilized thousands of relief workers, rescue teams, and essential resources to minimize potential damage and ensure swift response to any emergencies caused by Cyclone Dana’s impact.
Disruption to Transportation and Public Services
Cyclone Dana has already impacted transportation across Odisha and West Bengal. Airports in Bhubaneswar and Kolkata have suspended operations from Thursday evening to Friday morning as a safety precaution. Additionally, over 200 train services have been canceled, and local authorities are closely monitoring other travel routes to prevent disruptions.
Fishermen along the Odisha and West Bengal coastlines have been advised to avoid venturing into the sea due to the high risk posed by Cyclone Dana. Port authorities at Paradip in Odisha have implemented contingency plans to safeguard port workers, with essential personnel and equipment secured ahead of the storm’s arrival. Coastal schools and educational institutions in vulnerable areas have been closed as part of the safety measures.

Weather Forecast and Potential Impact
The IMD has issued warnings for “heavy to very heavy” rainfall expected along the coastline, which may lead to localized flooding and waterlogging. The wind speeds predicted during Cyclone Dana’s landfall—expected to reach up to 120 km/h—pose a risk to coastal infrastructure, including homes, power lines, and roadways. Authorities have set up temporary relief camps and stocked them with essential supplies to assist displaced residents.
Given Odisha and West Bengal’s history of experiencing severe storms and cyclones, preparations have been robust. Officials have taken lessons from past cyclones, including the devastating 1999 super cyclone in Odisha that claimed over 10,000 lives. In recent years, improved cyclone response measures have helped reduce fatalities, although property and infrastructure damage remain significant concerns.
Rescue Teams and Emergency Protocols
Emergency services in both Odisha and West Bengal are on high alert as Cyclone Dana nears the coastline. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) units have been deployed across affected districts, prepared for rapid action once Cyclone Dana makes landfall. The teams are equipped to handle potential disruptions caused by high winds, debris, and power outages. Helicopters and boats have also been readied for emergency rescues if needed.
Officials have issued guidelines to the public to secure belongings, avoid risky areas, and remain indoors during the cyclone. Families are encouraged to stay updated on weather reports and follow local authorities’ instructions. State officials have also been coordinating with hospitals to ensure medical services are available and accessible to those who might need them during and after the cyclone’s passage.
Preparedness for Future Cyclones
Cyclone Dana’s impending arrival underscores the regularity of severe weather events in the Bay of Bengal region. Both Odisha and West Bengal are known for their resilience and frequent exposure to cyclones, making government preparedness plans and community resilience essential components of cyclone response strategies. These regions have established protocols to mitigate cyclone damage, including the development of storm shelters and improved forecasting capabilities.
In 2022, a cyclone left at least 16 people dead in India and Bangladesh, highlighting the need for continued improvements in cyclone preparedness. The IMD’s advanced tracking technology and timely communication with the public have been instrumental in enhancing readiness for Cyclone Dana, demonstrating India’s commitment to strengthening resilience in its coastal regions.
Conclusion
With Cyclone Dana set to hit the coastline of Odisha and West Bengal soon, the state governments are working tirelessly to protect residents, mitigate damage, and manage emergency response efforts. The widespread evacuations, transport disruptions, and extensive precautions reflect a coordinated effort to confront the threat posed by the approaching cyclone. As Cyclone Dana reaches landfall, the effectiveness of these measures will be crucial in safeguarding lives and minimizing the storm’s impact on the coastal communities of eastern India.
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